Insurance companies will want to settle directly with you and not through your car wreck attorney. Companies have a better chance of a low payout when there aren\’t legal representation and court costs. If you are involved in an accident that includes physical injury, extensive property damage, and/or death, you should find an accident injury lawyer to help deal with the insurance companies.

The scene of an accident is often chaotic. However, there are certain actions that should be followed. Stay at the scene until the police or medics tell you that you can leave. Leaving before all information is gathered can put you at risk of a charge of hit and run.

Check on all people involved and call the police. Get all the names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information of all involved. Do not discuss the accident or apologize for something you thought you should have done to prevent the accident. Things happen quickly and fault is often not just one person\’s fault.

Take pictures of the scene if you can. It may seem out of place but it can help in a legal case. People\’s memory can be vague when trying to remember a traumatic accident. Photos will help. Call your insurance agent as soon as you can. Explain the situation and if you have any injuries.

Get the names and precinct of the police on the scene. You will need this information to obtain a copy of the accident report. Give any pertinent information to the insurance company such as broken traffic laws or fault stated in the report.

The only people you should discuss the case with are your lawyer and your insurance company. If the insurance company of the other people tries to contact you, get the name and number of the person who called you. Then direct them to your attorney. Do not give them any information.

Read your policy to understand the coverage and exclusions. Have your agent explain anything that you are not sure about the intent or meaning. Make a note of the date, time and with whom you spoke whenever you talk to your agent, or insurance company. Also, get a phone number.

Insurance coverage for accidents often is not just on your auto policy. Umbrella or home insurance policies can have accident coverage. Some credit cards may offer secondary limits of coverage. Check all of these sources and make copies of the terms and conditions.

Be candid not cagey with your insurance company. False statements about the accident could harm your chances for reimbursement. Coverage could be denied if you withhold important facts. Find out if your policy is a replacement value or actual cash value. Any payments should coincide with these terms.

Be aware of any time limits that are included in your policy. Proof of loss will usually have to be filed no later than one year from the accident. If you cannot provide this, get a written waiver from the provider.

Your insurance company is not your enemy but it is best to let your car wreck attorney handle most interactions with it. In hiring an accident professional, you should be getting someone who has in depth knowledge about insurance companies. Search for a legal firm online to find a qualified representative.

Author Bio: http://johnfoy.com/car-accident-injury-attorney/car-accident-attorney.php

Category: Legal
Keywords: personal injury accident lawyer, person injury attorney